Indications
Bambuterol is used for the long-term control of asthma and to prevent wheezing and breathlessness in other long-lasting lung conditions with narrowed airways. It is not for relieving a sudden asthma attack.
How It Works
Bambuterol is a prodrug: after it is absorbed, the body slowly turns it into Terbutaline. Terbutaline stimulates beta-2 receptors in the muscles around the airways, making them relax and widen so that breathing is easier. Because the change happens slowly, one dose works for about 24 hours.
Dosage and Administration
Adults usually start with 10 mg once daily at bedtime. After 1 to 2 weeks the doctor may increase this to 20 mg once daily if needed. A lower dose is used in people with reduced kidney function. Children’s doses are set by the doctor. Take it regularly, even when you feel well, and keep a fast-acting reliever inhaler for sudden symptoms.
Interactions
Beta blockers, including eye drops such as Timolol, can block its effect and may trigger wheezing. Steroids, diuretics and Theophylline can increase the risk of low blood potassium. Bambuterol slows the breakdown of Suxamethonium, a muscle relaxant used in anaesthesia, so tell the anaesthetist you take it. Other beta-2 agonists add to the side effects.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Bambuterol or Terbutaline. It is not recommended in people with severe liver disease, as the liver may not convert it properly.
Side Effects
Common side effects include shaky hands (tremor), headache, a fast or pounding heartbeat, muscle cramps, restlessness and sleep problems. These often lessen after 1 to 2 weeks. It can lower blood potassium and raise blood sugar.
Get urgent medical help if your breathing suddenly gets worse after a dose, you have chest pain, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, severe muscle weakness, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or throat. Also seek help if your usual reliever inhaler is not working as well as before.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Use in pregnancy only if your doctor decides the benefit outweighs the risk, especially near delivery, as it may affect the baby’s heart rate and blood sugar. It may pass into breast milk; ask your doctor before breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Use with care if you have an overactive thyroid, heart disease or irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, diabetes (check sugar levels more often) or kidney problems. Do not stop prescribed steroid inhalers when using Bambuterol. If you need your reliever more often, your asthma may be getting worse: see your doctor.
Overdose
Overdose may cause severe shaking, a very fast heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, headache, agitation, low potassium and low blood pressure. Seek emergency medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Bronchodilator, long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist (Terbutaline prodrug).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.